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Türkiye’s Esports Federation aims for global strength

Alper Afsin Ozdemir, President of the Türkiye Esports Federation (TESFED), shared insights with an Anadolu Agency reporter about the federation’s goals. (AA Photo)
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Alper Afsin Ozdemir, President of the Türkiye Esports Federation (TESFED), shared insights with an Anadolu Agency reporter about the federation’s goals. (AA Photo)
August 11, 2025 12:44 PM GMT+03:00

The Türkiye Esports Federation (TESFED) is setting its sights on becoming a global powerhouse by building a strong infrastructure and fostering homegrown talent.

In an exclusive interview with Anadolu Agency (AA), the federation’s president, Alper Afsin Ozdemir, shared ambitious plans to expand competitive leagues and elevate Turkish esports on the world stage.

Launching Türkiye's first Counter-Strike 2 league

Ozdemir announced the launch of Türkiye’s first Counter Strike 2 (CS2) league under TESFED Leagues, featuring eight teams—six invited and two qualifying through open tournaments.

Most participating teams have completed their licensing process with the federation.

He described the CS2 league as a pilot for future competitions in other game titles.

International representation, success

The federation president expressed pride in Turkish players and national teams representing Türkiye abroad.

He pointed to notable accomplishments such as finishing second overall at the 2024 World Esports Championship in Riyadh and securing third place in the Dota 2 European Championship.

These milestones reinforce TESFED’s goal of maintaining and elevating Türkiye’s presence in global esports.

The recent Istanbul leg of the PUBG Mobile Super League (PMSL) represents a major milestone for Türkiye’s esports landscape, perfectly illustrating the country’s rising status in the global gaming arena.

Hosting the European Finals for the first time, the event drew elite teams from across the region and showcased Türkiye’s capability to organize world-class esports competitions.

A promotional image of IDA Esports championship-winning roster at BtcTurk GameFest 2025, accessed on June 5, 2025. (Photo via LinkedIn/company/@dijital-varliklar)
A promotional image of IDA Esports championship-winning roster at BtcTurk GameFest 2025, accessed on June 5, 2025. (Photo via LinkedIn/company/@dijital-varliklar)

Under the branch of Ihlas Holding, IDA Esports’ strong third-place finish and qualification for the upcoming PUBG MOBILE World Cup in Riyadh further underscores the nation’s growing influence and competitiveness in mobile esports.

Infrastructure development, collaboration

TESFED, founded with the support of the Ministry of Youth and Sports, prioritizes improvements in internet infrastructure and player equipment.

Ozdemir underlined ongoing efforts to collaborate with public institutions and the private sector to raise awareness and expand the esports ecosystem throughout Türkiye.

Personal connection to gaming

Ozdemir shared his personal enthusiasm for gaming, mentioning his favorite titles such as FIFA, PUBG Mobile, Valorant and League of Legends.

He enjoys playing with his son and follows the esports scene closely, combining his personal interest with his official role.

August 11, 2025 12:45 PM GMT+03:00
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